Climate Change to Triple U.S. Wildfire Smoke Deaths by 2050
Climate change is set to significantly increase the number of deaths caused by wildfire smoke in the U.S. by 2050. A new study warns that annual deaths could rise to 71,420, with California, Oregon, and Washington being the hardest hit. The economic cost is projected to exceed $608 billion.
The most vulnerable states are California, Oregon, and Washington. California is expected to see the highest increase, with an additional 5,060 deaths per year by 2050. This is due to wildfires becoming more frequent and extreme, releasing harmful pollutants like PM2.5 particles that can enter the lungs and bloodstream.
These particles can cause irritation, aggravate respiratory conditions, and even increase the risk of heart attacks. Between 2011 and 2020, wildfire smoke pollution caused 41,380 excess deaths per year in the U.S. By 2050, this number could triple to 121,380 deaths per year.
The projected 2050 cost of wildfire smoke deaths exceeds all other climate-driven damages combined, totaling over $608 billion. To mitigate this, reducing carbon emissions and using indoor air filtration systems are recommended. However, these measures alone may not be enough to prevent the significant increase in deaths and economic losses predicted.
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